Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a Nigerian senator, accused the Senate of operating like a “cult” following her suspension for alleging sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio. She expressed concerns about her safety and asserted that her punishment was a consequence of speaking out. Public and civil society responses highlight an ongoing struggle for gender equality in Nigeria’s political landscape.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, a Nigerian senator who alleged sexual harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, characterized the Senate’s environment as akin to a “cult” in a recent interview. Following her claims, she was suspended for six months. In her opinion, this punishment demonstrated a lack of tolerance for dissent within the Senate, highlighting the oppressive conditions faced by those who speak out. Akpoti-Uduaghan expressed concerns for her safety and that of her young child after being stripped of her security detail.
During the interview, Akpoti-Uduaghan stated, “The Nigerian Senate operates like a cult. The Senate president runs the Senate like a dictator, not a democrat.” She claimed that Akpabio’s leadership stifles free speech, punishing any opposition. In contrast, Senate Deputy Chief Whip Onyekachi Nwebonyi remarked that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s legislative activities contradict her assertion of being silenced.
The senator accused Akpabio of initiating harassing behavior during her visit to his residence, alleging he made inappropriate advances. She recounted these instances of harassment, claiming that Akpabio made sexist comments and created an uncomfortable environment during Senate sessions. However, Nwebonyi contested her claims, stating they were entirely false.
Gender disparity persists in Nigeria’s legislature, with only four female senators in an assembly of 109 members. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s petition against Akpabio was dismissed due to procedural errors, and her subsequent suspension was alleged to stem from unruly conduct during a Senate debate. Despite the challenges she faces, including losing her security, she remains resolute in her conviction.
Civil society groups have voiced concern regarding her treatment and have called for a thorough investigation into her allegations. Women’s rights activist Hadiza Ado lamented that Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension reflects the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in Nigeria.
Public responses have been polarized, with protests occurring both in support of Akpabio and Akpoti-Uduaghan. Following the harassment allegations, Akpoti-Uduaghan has received significant online backlash, including misogynistic abuse. Throughout her political journey, she has faced various challenges, including previous violence and discrimination during her candidacy. Despite the emotional toll of her experiences, Akpoti-Uduaghan stated she does not regret her decision to speak out for women across Nigeria who face similar struggles.
She confirmed her intention to challenge her suspension legally and file her sexual harassment allegations again with the Senate. Akpoti-Uduaghan emphasized that many women reached out to her, sharing similar experiences and encouraging her to continue her advocacy for change, thereby highlighting a widespread issue in Nigerian politics.
The situation surrounding Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan serves as a pressing commentary on the status of women in Nigerian politics. Her allegations of sexual harassment and subsequent suspension raise critical questions about gender equality and the dynamics within the Senate. As Akpoti-Uduaghan continues to advocate for herself and others, the response from civil society underscores the need for accountability and reform in addressing harassment and discrimination in political environments. This incident illustrates the ongoing struggle for women’s rights in Nigeria and the urgency for systemic change.
Original Source: www.bbc.com
